Jurgen Klopp begins Germany reign with energy, smiles and a new generation

Jurgen Klopp led his first training session as Germany manager on Tuesday, bringing the familiar enthusiasm and broad smile that marked his time on the touchline at Liverpool, Mainz and Borussia Dortmund. The session began preparations for Germany’s Nations League opener against the Netherlands, managed by Xavi Hernandez, on Thursday.

It was Klopp’s first return to coaching since his Liverpool spell ended at the end of June 2024. He had subsequently spent a year and a half as head of football at Red Bull before putting on his training kit again to take charge of the national team.

Spanish newspaper AS, reflecting on Klopp’s first session with Germany, wrote: “We saw the familiar Klopp: full of energy, friendly and wearing a broad smile throughout the session. Klopp is back.”

Klopp’s arrival is being viewed as the start of a new era for Germany, with several less-established players included in the squads selected for the international break. The group under his command includes players who have not regularly started for their clubs, among them Philipp Treu, Bambasi Conte, Yannik Engelhardt, Max Rosenfelder, Hennes Behrens and Younes Ben Tahl.

The new manager’s message to the players was clear, according to Younes Ben Tahl.

“He told us to represent Germany with pride, give everything when things do not go as we want and put all we have into it,” he said.

Klopp’s influence was already apparent among the players during the opening session. Treu said the manager’s character had created a strong sense of commitment within the squad.

“You feel as if you are ready to sacrifice everything for him. He is a great person,” said Treu.

Rosenfelder also highlighted Klopp’s personality, describing a coach who combines authority with an approachable manner.

“You have a great deal of respect for him, but he is also very kind and friendly, and he knows how to deal with you,” Rosenfelder said.

For Ben Tahl, Klopp’s standing in the game made the significance of joining the Germany squad especially clear.

“If he calls you, you have to accept the invitation. He is one of the best coaches in the world,” he said.

Klopp’s first competitive test will come against the Netherlands on Thursday, when Germany begin their Nations League campaign under their new manager.